Author Says Proposed 11K Sq. Ft. Smiths Neck Home ‘Threatens’ Old Lyme’s ‘Environmental Heritage … Rural Character’
To the Editor:
Old Lyme residents need to be aware of a concerning development proposal at 43 Smiths Neck Road that threatens our town’s environmental heritage and rural character. The proposed 11,000 square-foot residence would dramatically alter our cherished riverfront landscape and sets a troubling precedent for future development along the Connecticut River.
The developer has already clear-cut native vegetation down to the waterline, destroying critical wildlife habitat and causing visible erosion. The massive proposed structure features 35-foot white walls that would be visible across the river, with over 90 outdoor lights that would significantly impact our dark skies and wildlife. Even more concerning, the water usage from such a large residence (8 bedrooms, 7 baths, pool, and extensive gardens) could strain the limited aquifer that all Smiths Neck residents depend upon.
The Connecticut River Gateway Commission has recommended denying this application, citing multiple violations of Old Lyme’s zoning regulations designed to protect our scenic and environmentally fragile river corridor.
I urge concerned citizens to write letters and attend the crucial Zoning Commission meeting on January 13, 2025, at 6:30 pm at Old Lyme Town Hall. Your presence and voice matter in preserving Old Lyme’s natural beauty and environmental resources for future generations.
The time to protect our riverfront access and ensure compliance with our Zoning regulations is now. Please join your neighbors in attending this important meeting.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth Karter,
Old Lyme.
The rights of the private property owners should prevail, if the property owners comply with existing zoning and building codes let them build. If a municipal or state agency wants to dictate what happens with the land let them purchase it. It’s that simple.
Not sure “it is that simple”.
The Gateway Commission, as an advisory regulatory body, is proof of the importance of nuance and the complexity of patrimony and preservation. Their views, as gatekeepers of our common interest, does indeed have standing.
It’s not that simple. Connecticut state law states that “the air, water, land, and other natural resources, taken for granted since the state’s settlement, are now recognized as finite and precious.” Human activity “must be guided by and in harmony with the system of relationships among the elements of nature” to conserve, improve and protect its natural resources and environment.”
It is our responsibility as stewards of the fragile environment we are fortunate to have here in Old Lyme to advocate to protect the last unindustrialized river mouth on the eastern seaboard. I’m no expert, but the proposed 11k mega mansion with 35 ft walls, does not seem like it would comply with many safeguards/zoning/environmental regulations and be a bombastic eyesore. Our environment, just like democracy is fragile and needs advocacy and protection.
When seeing something like this happening,one does have to ask,did someone receive a envelope full of cash to approve it?